Metal Carports

If you buy a house that doesn't have a garage, you'll need to build a place to park your car that protects it and you from the harsh elements of sun, wind, rain and sometimes snow. In that case, a less expensive and easier alternative to building a traditional garage is to buy a metal carport or garage building.

Metal carports can be purchased in a number of different sizes and styles, and are easy to order, install, and use. These versatile metal structures are made of steel and available virtually everywhere. They can also be installed almost anywhere. All you need is a concrete slab or a plat piece of ground to put one on and you're in business. Some metal building companies will even deliver and install a metal carport for free.

A metal carport built to house a single vehicleis generally around 12 feet wide, 21 feet long, and about five feet tall. A carport for two vehicless will be about the same dimensions, but six feet wider (18 feet). Even wider carports can be purchased (say 26 feet or so) which can accomodate three or more cars.

If you enjoy variety, different roof and eave designs with varying colors can be ordered to create a metal carport to suit your specific needs, along with a choice of steel gauge, usually 12 or 14. The lower the number, the stronger the guage of steel (so 12 would be stronger than 14), but also the higher the cost, This makes 14 guage steel a more cost efficient option. Metal carport roofs are usually of a lighter guage of steel, such as 29.

Many metal carport designs also offer the option of variations such as vertical roof panels. These run from the peak side of the carport to aid with drainage and are recommended in areas that see higher than average rain or snowfall levels. Other customizable options for metal carports include things such as gable ends for the front, back, or for both ends of the carport, which add to the aesthetic value of the metal structure if it is in a highly visible area - adding "curb appeal." These customization optioins can be a very important consideration for someone who wants to install a metal carport right next to their home so they don't have far to walk from their car to the front door of the house in inclement weather or at night.

Other options such as metal sides can be put on carports too in order to better protect you and your automobile from the wind and weather. For an additional charge, a lot of steel structure companies can anchor your carport with mobile home anchors or concrete anchors to add stability and safety. Metal carports can house more than just cars, too. They can also hold vehicles such as RV's, boats, motorcycles, ATV's, or snowmobile.

When looking for a metal carport, be sure to do your research to make sure the company you choose has the right one to suit your needs. There's a lot to choose from out there. Ask questions about things such as shipping and installation costs, and also any additional costs that may be added for modifications or styles and colors. You should also ask about warranty or repairs and how they are handled. Ask out how long it will take to deliver and intall your metal carport, too. Many good companies can install them in two weeks or less from the date they're ordered.

Here's a good resource to get metal carports and metal garages.